Cricketer hopes for spot in NSW Cricket’s Emerging Blues program
A YOUNG left-hand cricketer skilled in both batting and bowling is this week’s Local Sports Star nomination.
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A YOUNG left-hand cricketer skilled in both batting and bowling is this week’s Local Sports Star nomination.
Connor McEwen had such a successful third season in the Wetherill Park Cricket Club representative side that he was invited to trial with NSW Cricket’s Emerging Blues program.
McEwen, along with 80 other talented players from NSW, were invited to trial for a place in the Cricket NSW Academy, which will give them access to high-calibre coaches, sports science staff and facilities, as well as be mentored from elite players.
The all-rounder will be eagerly waiting this Friday to find out whether he has been successful.
Out of 80 young cricketers invited to join, the selectors will take just 25 through for four months of intensive coaching.
The 12-year-old topped the scoreboard for his team last season, despite only playing the sport for three years.
Dad Darryl McEwen said Connor’s natural talent was what got the attention of all the coaches.
“Connor doesn’t have any special coaching, it’s just him and I, at the nets practising together — his talent is all natural,” Mr McEwen said.
Connor said the trials were tough but he was confident he did well and gave it his all.
“I bowled really well and got four wickets during the trials,” he said.
Connor is fast earning a reputation as a solid fast-bowler, but his batting is equally impressive.
Playing above his age group in the under-13s team, Connor scored 82 not out for Wetherill Park against Fairfield RSL in round 9 action.
The Year 7 student, from Bossley Park, said his favourite cricket player was Australian captain Steve Smith.
“He has good leadership and he’s a really good batsman,” Connor said of Smith.
Cricket wasn’t the youngster’s first sporting choice, with rugby league getting a look-in.
But once his father saw his natural cricketing ability he nurtured him in that direction.
Connor’s sights are set on playing for Australia one day..
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